Former cricketer Graeme Smith was surprised by Mahendra Singh Dhoni’s decision to step down as Chennai Super Kings captain. He termed the wicket-keeper batter as an “incredible leader”. Ruturaj Gaikwad is leading the Chennai Super Kings in the 2024 Indian Premier League season.
Mahendra Singh Dhoni has led the franchise in 235 matches. He has won five IPL titles and two Champions League titles for the Chennai Super Kings. He stepped down as the captain on the eve of the opening match of the 2024 Indian Premier League. Former cricketer Graeme Smith feels despite Dhoni not being the captain his influence will be enormous on the team. He shared for Betaway Insider,
“I was surprised to see MS Dhoni step down as Chennai Super Kings captain but, as much as he’s an incredible leader, he’s always had the ability to put the team first.”
“He might have suffered a niggle in pre-season training or just realised that it’s time, but you wonder whether his body feels like it can last an entire season. It will be interesting to see the type of role that he plays now, how they phase him in and out and what sort of cricketing element he can play, but his influence over the team in the coming weeks is still going to be enormous. However, you can be sure that, as one generation steps away, another will quickly emerge,” he added.
There’s always someone that comes to the fore: Graeme Smith hails India’s talent pool
Former cricketer Graeme Smith was all praise for India’s talent pool, saying that the players always step up to prove their worth. He lauded India’s domestic cricket model and also hailed Yashasvi Jaiswal, who has been very impressive in his small International career so far. Graeme Smith said,
“There’s so much talent in India with rookies and youngsters that really put their hand up after being exposed to the crowds and the pressures of facing international talent. There’s always someone that comes to the fore. Jaiswal, for example, really stepped up last year and is now averaging over 68 in Test cricket.”
“Such depth of talent and competitive cricket is why the Indian team has gone from strength to strength. It’s a model to be applauded and I can’t wait to see the next stars emerge,” he added.
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